---- Chapter 5 "Why go and mess with their lovey-dovey scene? Wasn't it better the way things were? You pay me, and Ihang out with you. It's a sweet deal." I shook off the daze, my laugh icy and sharp. "Cut the crap! We're nothing, and I'm done bankrolling a thief with a gambling problem!" Right as I spoke, I caught sight of Keith and Joan stepping out of the jewelry store, his arm around her. Our eyes locked, and Keith's look was icy, cutting through me like a blade. linstinctively tried to pull away from Daniel, but he clung to me tighter, his arm like a vice around my waist. Then Joan came up, all smiles. "You're Keith's sister Elsie, aren't you? Hi, I'm Joan." I tried to smile back, but it felt like my face was made of stone. "Hi." ---- Daniel jumped in with a too-friendly, "Hey, I'm Daniel." Keith's eyes squinted, a shadow passing over his face, but he acted as if Daniel were invisible. Joan kept smiling. "So, are you Elsie's boyfriend?" Daniel put on a wounded act. "Nah, I'm just one of the many guys on her waiting list, hoping Elsie will make it official someday." I glanced at Keith, his face unreadable. My urge to set the record straight faded, leaving me feeling drained. Joan's eyes lingered on me, filled with unspoken thoughts, before she turned to Keith and said. "Girls need to hold themselves with a bit more dignity, Keith. You've got to keep an eye on your sister. Her bad rep is starting to rub off on you." Those words stung like a slap to my face. I could not tear my gaze away from Keith, wondering if he felt the same way. Finally, Keith broke the silence, but his words were ---- for Joan. ''Come on, we've still got a gown for the ceremony to pick out, right?" Joan smiled softly and took Keith's arm, and they walked away together. I stood frozen, watching them go, until Daniel's voice snapped me back to reality. "Elsie, you owe me for making an appearance. I just put on a show for your dear brother, proving you're not just some reject." I felt sick to my stomach, like I had swallowed a bug. I clenched my hands and spat out, "Beat it." After leaving Daniel in the dust, I headed straight for the Starry Night Bar. I ordered enough drinks to drown my sorrows and downed them like there was no tomorrow. However, for some reason, the booze that used to dull my senses only sharpened them this time. Stumbling home, reeking of alcohol, I barely noticed the tall figure waiting by my door until I was almost Title: ReelTalk EP11-From Memory Lane to Fast Lanes Author: CrushReel Genre: Romance Status: ongoing Embark on an exhilarating journey alongside Luke Charles Stafford as he navigates from the heartland of the Midwest to the glitzy realm of Hollywood in "ReelTalk EP11-From Memory Lane to Fast Lanes" by CrushReel. This ongoing romantic tale delves into the intertwined lives of characters amidst contrasting backdrops, promising a narrative rich in depth and emotion. Within this captivating episode, Luke's transition from a quaint Midwestern setting to the bustling streets of Hollywood unveils layers of personal growth and unforeseen encounters. As he grapples with newfound challenges and connections, themes of love, ambition, and self-discovery intertwine to create a tapestry of emotions that resonate with readers on a profound level. "ReelTalk EP11-From Memory Lane to Fast Lanes" stands out through its nuanced portrayal of relationships and the pursuit of dreams against a backdrop of contrasting landscapes. CrushReel's expertise in crafting authentic characters and evocative settings ensures a reading experience that transcends traditional romance narratives. Immerse yourself in this spellbinding story, available to read at CrushReel, and witness firsthand the magnetic pull of fate as it weaves its intricate web through the lives of Luke and those around him. Experience the magic of "ReelTalk EP11-From Memory Lane to Fast Lanes" as it unfolds online at CrushReel, inviting you to explore the depths of love and ambition in a world where paths cross and destinies collide.